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4.0: MAINTENANCE
The 3200-XS Sub-Bottom Profiling System is ruggedly designed and built, therefore requiring little
maintenance. To ensure long lasting and reliable service, however, some periodic maintenance is
recommended. This section provides some maintenance recommendations and includes instructions on
how to disassemble and reassemble a tow vehicle should it be required to replace internal components.
4.1 Periodic Maintenance
Maintenance on the 3200-XS Sub-Bottom Profiling System should be performed on a regular basis, as
often as necessary, depending on use. However, most of the maintenance is performed after each
deployment and recovery cycle of the tow vehicle. Other maintenance, such as cleaning of the air filter in
the 3200-XS Topside Processor, can be performed as necessary.
4.1.1 Cleaning the 3200-XS Topside Processor
The 3200-XS Topside Processor in the Deck Unit Should be cleaned inside periodically using a grounded
vacuum cleaner.
4.1.2 Cleaning the Tow Vehicle and Tow Cable after Use
After retrieving the tow vehicle from the water, use a hose to wash it down, along with the tow cable,
with clean, fresh water. Thoroughly spray the transducers and the hydrophone arrays from underneath
the tow vehicle and remove any buildup of debris that may have been trapped inside.
Once dry, inspect the inside of the tow vehicle, especially the transducers, the hydrophone arrays and the
cables for any damage and for any loose connectors. Also inspect the tow cable and the connectors on
each end. Attach dummy plugs to Tow cable and tow fish connectors. Then, clean the transducers and
hydrophone arrays using a mild, non-abrasive detergent and water. Do not use any abrasive detergents
or ammonia based cleaners. After cleaning, thoroughly spray the transducers and hydrophones again with
fresh water.
4.1.3 Inspecting and Cleaning the Underwater Connectors
Regularly inspect the contacts on the male pins of each underwater connector in the tow vehicle and on
the tow cable for corrosion or oxidation. To remove any oxidation, rub the contacts lightly with 800 grit
emery cloth cut into strips equal to or less than the width of a contact. A pencil eraser can also be used
for this purpose. The female sockets can be cleaned using a cotton swab and rubbing alcohol. A .22 caliber
bore brush with only nylon bristles can be used to remove light oxidation.
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